Researchers found that people age 60 or older who said they enjoyed life less were more likely to develop a disability over an eight year period, and a recent review of more than 200 studies found a connection between positive thinking and lowered risk of cardiovascular disease.

Research has also found that happiness is linked to genetics and environment when we’re young – two factors that aren’t as controllable.

They say being able to manage life’s speed bumps – in essence regulating negativity – has a big impact on our physical health.